Clifton Suspension Bridge 2-Hour Hard Hat Tour
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EmailReady to get up close and personal with one of Bristol's most iconic landmarks and uncover its fascinating history? This two-hour historical hard hat tour will introduce you to the design, construction and rediscovery of Brunel's Leigh Woods abutment and the secrets of its vaulted chambers.
When construction of the Clifton Suspension Bridge began in 1831, the eyes of the world were on Isambard Kingdom Brunel and his bold plan to build the highest and longest bridge in the world.
The ambitious young engineer encountered many difficulties with the project and many of the bridge’s secrets were lost when he died before the project was complete. In 2002 an intrepid team of engineers and construction workers rediscovered Brunel’s hidden vaults. This is your chance to take a look inside!
Join volunteer guide and historian, Gordon, who will explain how the design of Brunel’s bridge was shaped by others' influence, and how the young newcomer was able to make his name. With the help of Gordon’s ever-expanding bag of props and artefacts, you’ll hear all about the people who built and rediscovered the vaults before donning a hard hat, descending a ladder and taking a look for yourself. It's set to be a real adventure!
Important information:
- Tours are suitable for age 7+ and under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
- There is a minimum height limit of 1.2m
- All members of the group must be physically capable of climbing a vertical ladder and passing through a low corridor
- You will not be allowed to join the tour in heels or open-toed shoes. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip such as hiking boots or trainers and ensure you have two hands free to climb the ladder.
Age restrictions: 7+
| Adult (General Admission) | £20 |
Available dates
Sorry, there are currently no dates available
The good news is that we’re expecting more to be added really soon!
Want to be the first to find out when new dates are released? Register below to notify the host of your interest
What people are saying
May 2023
As a Bristolian you would think I had visited all the highlights of our great City, but this trip...
May 2023
Very informative well delivered tour by our guides Gordon/Diane an enjoyable 2hrs. Would certain...
May 2023
An informative, entertaining tour and the chambers are spectacular.
May 2023
The guide Gordon was amazing and made the experience a lot of fun with lots of knowledge
22 Reviews
May 2023
As a Bristolian you would think I had visited all the highlights of our great City, but this trip proves there are still some secrets Bristol has to offer. Who knew the two towers weren’t identical in design? The opportunity to go inside the vaults of one of the towers gives a completely different perspective to the Suspension Bridge. If you were impressed before with the expertise of the 19th century engineers and skills of the builders, then this takes you to another level. Highly recommended!
May 2023
Very informative well delivered tour by our guides Gordon/Diane an enjoyable 2hrs. Would certainly recommended
May 2023
An informative, entertaining tour and the chambers are spectacular.
May 2023
The guide Gordon was amazing and made the experience a lot of fun with lots of knowledge
May 2023
Very interesting to learn the history behind it. Very exiting once you step inside the vault. Not what I expected to see at all. It was magical.
May 2023
Anybody who is ummming and ahhhing about doing this tour , please do it , its amazing
Apr 2023
So interesting - a bridge of outstanding interest so please I attended-Thank you
Apr 2023
really worthwhile and interesting
Apr 2023
A hidden gem
Nov 2022
Informative and entertaining a great guide
Oct 2022
The tour was absolutely fascinating! I had no idea the vaults even existed! Our tour guides Laura and Gordon were extremely knowledgeable and very personable. I haven’t stopped raving about this tour to friends and family!
Oct 2022
An amazing tour with the joy of seeing something only discovered 20 years ago. Utterly fabulous!
Sep 2022
Gordon was a very informative and fun guide and we thoroughly enjoyed this fabulous discovery
Sep 2022
Informative, interesting and humorous guide. Would recommend to friends and relatives. Well done Gordon and thank you.
Sep 2022
Very informative, great time.
Sep 2022
Booked for dad & 5 friends, they thoroughly enjoyed it (& Gordon’s commentary).
Sep 2022
Excellent couple of hours, packed with interesting information. The guide involved everyone in the group. A really enjoyable tour but probably not one for small children. Would definitely recommend to others.
Aug 2022
Particular thanks to the host who is a volunteer, he was knowledable and clearly put considerable time and effort into making the experience enjoyable for all.
Aug 2022
A really excellent guide and an unusual experience
Jul 2022
This was a great tour with a lovely tour guide. I learnt so much! Thank you
Jul 2022
Definitely would recommend
Jul 2022
Our guide, Gordon, was superb.
The experience was amazing.
Time slipped by as we were so enthralled.
Getting into the vaults was easy.
We were amazed at the size and feat of engineering.
We highly recommend this trip.
How to get there
Facilities
- Experience takes place outdoors
- Toilets
On the day
- All members of the group must be physically capable of climbing a vertical ladder and passing through a low corridor
- There is a minimum height limit of 1.2m
- Tours are suitable for age 7+ and under 18s must be accompanied by an adult
- You will not be allowed to join the tour in heels or open-toed shoes. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip such as hiking boots or trainers and ensure you have two hands free to climb the ladder
Changes happen, don't worry
You'll be hosted by
Any questions?
Ask your question directly to Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Available dates
Sorry, there are currently no dates available
The good news is that we’re expecting more to be added really soon!
Want to be the first to find out when new dates are released? Register below to notify the host of your interest
Clifton Suspension Bridge 2-Hour Hard Hat Tour
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